How to become an English teacher in India

By APTTI TEFL faculty · Updated 6 October 2026 · 2 min read

To become an English teacher in Indian schools, you usually need a degree in English or a related subject, a B.Ed (or D.El.Ed for primary), and a pass in CTET or your state TET for classes 1–8. To teach English in language institutes, online or abroad, the usual route is a degree plus a 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certificate and strong spoken English.

What this means in practice

There are two tracks. The school track is regulated; the language-teaching track is driven by employers. Many teachers move between them over a career.

The school track

graduate in English or a related subject
complete a B.Ed (secondary) or D.El.Ed (primary) from an NCTE-recognised institution
pass CTET or a state TET for classes 1–8
apply to government, aided or private schools

The language-teaching track

build fluent, accurate English
take a 120-hour TEFL/TESOL course
add a specialism such as young learners, IELTS, Business English or phonetics
gain practice through tutoring, a live course or volunteering
apply to institutes, online schools or employers abroad

Skills that matter on both tracks

Clear pronunciation, the ability to make grammar simple, planning lessons with clear aims, and managing a class of mixed abilities are what interviewers and demo-lesson panels look for.

Skills to build while you qualify

While you complete your qualifications, practise teaching whenever you can: tutor school students, volunteer with an NGO's spoken-English programme, or teach family members online. Record yourself, notice your teacher talk, and work on clear pronunciation. By the time you apply, you will have a demo lesson you trust and real examples to talk about in interviews.

Practical next steps

Choose your track: school, language teaching, or both.
Complete the required qualifications for that track.
Gain teaching practice early.
Prepare a demo lesson.
Keep developing with short specialist courses.

ExampleAnjali graduated in English from Patna University, took TEFL while preparing for B.Ed entrance, and taught spoken English part-time. After B.Ed and CTET she joined a private school, and her TEFL training shaped her speaking lessons.

What to keep in mind

Recruitment rules differ between states and boards and are updated often. Always check the latest official notification.

Common follow-up questions

Is CTET required for private schools?

Many private CBSE schools ask for CTET for classes 1–8, but requirements vary by school and state.

Can I teach English without B.Ed?

Yes, in language institutes, online and in many roles abroad, usually with TEFL. Most regular school posts need B.Ed.

Can I become an English teacher without an English degree?

For language institutes and online teaching, yes, with fluent English and TEFL. Schools usually expect English as a subject in your degree and a B.Ed.

Related course

Online TEFL / TESOL Course

The 120-hour TEFL/TESOL Certificate most employers ask for, stackable to a 200-hour Diploma, PG Diplomas with one or two specialisations, and a 540-hour High-End course.

₹12,000 + GST · USD 199 international

View course